The Security of Cryptosystems Based on Error-Correcting Codes

Quantum computers are distinguished by their enormous storage capacity and relatively high computing speed. Among the cryptosystems of the future, the best known and most studied which will resist when using this kind of computer are cryptosystems based on error-correcting codes. The use of problems inspired by the theory of error-correcting codes in the design of cryptographic systems adds an alternative to cryptosystems based on number theory, as well as solutions to their vulnerabilities. Their security is based on the problem of decoding a random code that is NP-complete. In this chapter, we will discuss the cryptographic properties of error-correcting codes, as well as the security of cryptosystems based on code theory.